By Vanessa Overholser - Staff Writer
The cost of living is rising and gas prices continue to soar as working families suffer, leaving them in dire need this Christmas. Rowan County Christmas board members predict this year the need for the philanthropy will be great.
There will more of a demand for help this year at Christmas, said Wendy Stinson, RCC board member.
“We helped over 600 families last year,” she said. “We are not certain of what the number will be this year.”
“It depends on the amount of applications we will receive. The problem is the state of the economy,” said board member Joy Brown.
“We’re expecting more applications this year and less money,” Stinson added.
She said some people who usually make donations for RCC may not be able to this year. So, she and fellow board members are making more effort to raise funds. All the banks in Morehead are doing a candle fundraiser for RCC and they are asking local businesses for help.
“I called Ponderosa, they said they would do one,” she said. “We already did one with CiCi’s on Oct. 15. We raised $65 during that fundraiser.”
Stinson asks everyone who can to donate some items to RCC.
“We needs gifts for children ages 0-17 years old and we need senior gifts. We’re always looking for more board members and businesses, groups and organizations to do additional fundraisers. Any group or organization who wants to do a fundraiser for RCC is welcome to do so.”
RCC needs donations of toys, toiletry items, robes, slippers and household items. Board members ask individuals who are donating gifts to spend $15.
“Donations can be all tax deductible contributions,” Stinson said.
All donations are due Dec.1. Donations can be dropped off at the Morehead Community Federal Credit Union, US Bank, Citizen’s Bank, Whittaker Bank, Kentucky Bank, Morehead Conference Center, MSPR and Christian Social Services. Monetary donations can be sent to PO Box 1323, Morehead, KY 40351.
Rowan County Christmas was established in 1993 by social service agencies, churches, organizations, and businesses who were committed to making Christmas special for people in need. Individuals from these groups became a non-profit board and organized a giving program for families, individuals, and the elderly who need special care at Christmas.
Distribution day is Dec. 11 at the Carl Perkins Center located on Divide Hill.
For more information, contact RCC Chair Paul Hitchcock at 783-2334.
